smiles and medals

The struggle is real. Has been. In a world masked by the bright lights of social media and fronts made to disguise fabricated success as a daily lifestyle (enter #bowwowchallenge), it can be hard for those of us who know we’re not there yet but we’re gonna make it. Success is messy. It’s spontaneous. Yet it wants patience. You have to shape every building block by hand and place the cement oh so carefully brick by brick. But even then your tower might fall a few times. Circumstances can feel constraining, situations sticky, and times gritty. But, put so eloquently by Simone Biles on Monday evening,

“Smiling doesn’t win you gold medals.”

Success is not for the faint-hearted, the get-rich-quick schemers, or the unrevivable doubters. It is meant for those whose passion for their craft, their future and, most importantly, themselves takes priority over their fear of failure. There are times when you won’t be smiling and there will be no laughter to comfort you. You’ll feel misplaced and stagnant- your feet cemented to a foundation you want to build on, but can’t seem to break free from. And in those moments you will feel like there will be no room for smiles. But rest assured,

“Smiling doesn’t win you gold medals.”

Grit and bear through what you know is meant for you. It’s already yours, reality just has to catch up. And for those asking about the whereabouts of your smile, when you’re at the end of the tunnel, simply give them a wave and a wink. Keep your head held high because you are the only gravity that can keep it down. Know thyself. Know thy worth. And, yes, do take a moment to relish in what’s to come.